Manchester City striker Erling Haaland has jokingly held Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard responsible for his latest setback after a bizarre incident while on international duty with Norway.
The 24-year-old forward suffered a freak accident ahead of Norway’s World Cup qualifier against Moldova on Tuesday, leaving fans concerned over Haaland’s latest injury.
Thankfully for Manchester City supporters, the issue was not serious, and the striker even made light of the situation on social media.
Haaland sustained a cut lip after being hit by the team bus door while waiting on the pavement to collect his luggage.
The incident required minor medical attention, with stitches needed to close the wound.
Per The Sun, the striker uploaded a selfie showing the bloodied lip, captioning it: “Just got banged out by a bus door. 3 stitches.”
His humorous response quickly went viral, with fans reacting in droves. One supporter cheekily suggested that Odegaard had been involved, to which Haaland replied: “Correct.”
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The light-hearted exchange showed that the Manchester City star is not overly troubled by the injury, but his condition remains a point of focus given his importance to both club and country.
Haaland’s importance to Manchester City’s ambitions this season
Although Haaland’s latest injury was caused by sheer misfortune rather than physical strain, it once again highlights how crucial his presence is to Manchester City’s ambitions this season.
The Sky Blues face a daunting run of fixtures. After the international break, they host rivals Manchester United at the Etihad Stadium before welcoming Napoli, with City legend Kevin De Bruyne, in a high-stakes UEFA Champions League clash.
Shortly after, Guardiola’s men will face Arsenal in a potentially decisive league encounter.
For these games, Haaland’s fitness will be vital. His goals have already turned tight matches in City’s favor, and his ability to occupy defenders creates space for teammates.
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Also, Guardiola’s system thrives on his striker’s physical dominance, clinical finishing, and relentless movement.
Manchester City supporters will now look forward to seeing him back on the pitch, fully fit and ready to continue his remarkable goalscoring run.